Karuah River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current river water temperature at Karuah River in New South Wales. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.

Current Water Temperature

11.7°C

Today

12.0°C

Yesterday

12.2°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Karuah River today is 12°C.

Water Temperature in Karuah River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Karuah River have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Karuah River will be 11.9°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.

Table of Daily Water Temperature Data

Date	Current	Average	Forecast
Jun 13	12.1°C	12.0°C
Jun 14	12.1°C	12.0°C
Jun 15	12.2°C	12.0°C
Jun 16	12.2°C	12.0°C
Jun 17	12.1°C	12.0°C
Jun 18	11.8°C	12.0°C
Jun 19	11.9°C	12.0°C
Jun 20	12.0°C	12.0°C
Jun 21	11.7°C	12.0°C	11.7°C
Jun 22		12.0°C	11.7°C
Jun 23		12.0°C	11.8°C
Jun 24		12.0°C	11.8°C
Jun 25		12.0°C	11.8°C
Jun 26		12.0°C	11.8°C
Jun 27		12.0°C	11.9°C
Jun 28		12.0°C	11.9°C

* Current - Actual water temperature value

** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years

*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.

Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)

Month	Today	Yesterday	A Week Ago
January	20°C	23°C	25°C
February	20°C	22°C	24°C
March	17°C	21°C	23°C
April	15°C	17°C	21°C
May	11°C	14°C	18°C
June	9°C	12°C	15°C
July	8°C	10°C	13°C
August	9°C	11°C	13°C
September	11°C	13°C	15°C
October	14°C	16°C	18°C
November	17°C	19°C	21°C
December	20°C	21°C	23°C

Karuah River: Water Temperature by Location

Stroud

New South Wales

11.7°C

Karuah

New South Wales

13.1°C

Location & Local Information

Source Gloucester Tops, Great Dividing Range
• location below The Mountaineer, southwest of Gloucester
• elevation 598 m (1,962 ft)
Mouth Port Stephens
• location Karuah
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 101 km (63 mi)

The Karuah River runs from the forested hills inland of the Mid North Coast down to Port Stephens, and its water temperature reflects both the seasons and the mix of freshwater and tidal influence. In summer, temperatures usually sit around 22–26°C, especially in the upper and middle reaches where the water is mostly fresh and slow-moving. Spring and autumn tend to be milder, with the river holding between 18–22°C, which is still comfortable for swimming on warm days. In winter, the water cools noticeably, often dropping to about 12–16°C, feeling brisk but manageable for short dips, particularly on clear, sunny days.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Karuah River is generally allowed and popular in the non-tidal sections upstream, where the current is gentler and the water is clearer. These areas are commonly used by locals for casual swims, paddling, and cooling off during hot weather. Closer to the estuary, tidal flows can affect water clarity and temperature, making conditions less predictable. After heavy rain, the river can rise quickly and the water temperature can fall, so swimming is best avoided then. In stable conditions, though, the Karuah River offers a relaxed and safe freshwater swimming experience away from the busy coastal beaches.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Karuah River?

The water temperature in Karuah River today is 12°C.

What is the water temperature in Karuah River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Karuah River typically range from 20°C to 25°C.

Is it possible to swim in Karuah River (New South Wales)?

Yes — you can swim in parts of the Karuah River, especially the calmer estuarine sections around Karuah township and the river mouth. However, always follow local signage and advice, be aware of tides, currents and boat traffic, and avoid swimming after heavy rain as water quality can deteriorate.